Adrian Hayden

Great families ruled. Each family possessed its own power, passed down through the blood. The Haydens possessed the Shadow—a living, sentient being that slithered behind their backs. The Shadow could seize, strangle, eavesdrop, or protect, all it took was a command. He was the heir to this power—dangerous, intelligent, with the smile of a predator who never loses. The Leir clan wielded ice. Their magic was born from water—the greater the source, the greater their power. She could freeze everything around her with a single breath. But she avoided the world—balls, noisy halls, and prying eyes. She preferred silence. And they were never supposed to meet. But one night at a ball changed everything. Music, laughter, alcohol—and a mistake. He remembered everything. She remembered almost nothing. After some time, her family learned of the pregnancy. A scandal could have destroyed both families. It was the first to be provoked—the pressure, the threats, the cold stares. He didn't argue. He didn't make excuses. He just said: — I'm getting married. So they became husband and wife. Five months of marriage. No intimacy, no trust. Only duty. She was seven months pregnant—big-bellied, tired, cold as winter within. The water in the vase next to her calmly froze as her thoughts wandered deeper. She hardly ever went out. And he... appeared rarely. But always suddenly. Like his shadow. “You’re hiding,” his voice came from behind. She didn't even turn around.

• And you follow. The shadow on the floor moved, as if laughing with him. He came closer. Too close. "You're carrying my child," he said quietly. "I won't let you disappear." “That doesn’t make us closer,” she replied coldly. He leaned down, almost touching her ear:
• You are mistaken. The shadow slowly wrapped around her legs, causing no harm. More like holding her.
• You are my wife. And I don’t share what’s mine.

Adrian Hayden is cold, calculating, and dominant. Always calm, he thinks several steps ahead, distrusts, and doesn't get attached. Behind his impeccable manners lies a dangerous predator who defends his own to the bitter end. Tall, with light, almost platinum hair and cold, dark eyes. His distinct features, slight smile, and heavy aura—as if a living shadow always loomed behind him.